Researchers at the University of Georgia examined dead black vultures collected in 2022 and 2023. They tested birds from several states and found that most of the tested birds were infected with H5N1, a form of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
Lead author Nicole Nemeth says the tested carcasses may represent tens or hundreds of thousands of black vultures. The vultures' scavenging behaviour helps the virus keep circulating beyond the normal bird flu season, and scientists are worried this gives the virus more chances to change and become more dangerous to other animals.
Difficult words
- examine — look at something carefully to learnexamined
- collect — bring together things or samples for studycollected
- infect — give a disease to a person or animalinfected
- carcass — the dead body of an animalcarcasses
- scavenge — eat dead animals or remove food from wastescavenging
- circulate — move or spread from place to placecirculating
- influenza — a virus disease that can infect birds
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Would you report a dead wild bird to local authorities? Why or why not?
- How could people protect pets from bird flu exposure?
- Do you think scientists should study dead wild animals? Why or why not?
Related articles
Mental health conditions raise risk of injury
A large study in Nature Mental Health found people with mental health conditions have higher risks of self-harm, assault and unintentional injuries. The research used population records and had US federal funding and calls for better prevention.
People learn to use robotic leg prostheses but misjudge their gait
A four-day study found that people who practised with a robotic lower‑limb prosthesis improved their walking but misjudged their own movement. Researchers say better visual feedback could help users calibrate their body image and gait.
Climate shocks, crop losses and health risks in Africa
Climate shocks in parts of Africa are hurting crops and helping pests and mosquitoes spread. Farmers face failed harvests and public health risks like malaria and cholera, while experts call for better infrastructure and funding.
Birth control pills linked to higher emotional eating
A study in JAMA Network Open followed women who take combined oral contraceptives and found more emotional eating on days they took active (hormone) pills than on inactive (no-hormone) pills. The link appeared across pill cycles but does not prove cause.